Religious site
Basilica of San Francesco, Siena
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The Basilica of San Francesco is one of Siena's most important religious sites, built in the 13th and 14th centuries in the Gothic style. Its austere brick facade and vast interior reflect the Franciscan order's ideals of simplicity. Inside, visitors can see the mummified remains of several saints, including Saint Bernardino of Siena, preserved in glass reliquaries. The church also contains a celebrated painted crucifix by Cimabue, damaged in a 1966 flood but still a masterpiece of medieval art. The adjacent Oratory of San Bernardino houses a museum with frescoes and religious artifacts. The basilica's serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit for those interested in art and spirituality.
Don't miss
- View the Cimabue crucifix, a rare surviving work from the 13th century
- See the mummified remains of Saint Bernardino and other saints
- Admire the Gothic architecture and stained glass windows
- Visit the Oratory of San Bernardino for frescoes by Sodoma and Beccafumi
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Basilica of San Francesco, Siena
You can visit Basilica of San Francesco, Siena on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.
Cheapest way inSiena Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a local4.4★ · 41 travelers4-5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →
Most bookedDiscover the Medieval Charm of Siena on a Private Walking Tour4.8★ · 258 travelers2-3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$181 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleSiena Highlights Private Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)4.5★ · 33 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$105 per personSee dates →More attractions in Siena